Premier Scott Moe announced the province鈥檚 target date of June 8 to implement phase three of the Re-Open Saskatchewan plan, which will see more businesses and services opening along with larger gathering numbers.
鈥淚 want to emphasize that June 8 is a target date. We hope to begin phase three on June 8 but that can change,鈥� said Moe.
鈥淲e have just begun phase two so it is too early to tell,鈥� he added.
Moe said the announcement of the target date three days into phase two gives businesses that will be allowed to reopen a chance to prepare if cases remain low and phase three can go ahead.
鈥淯ltimately, the most important factor in the success of the reopening plan as a whole is each of us,鈥� said Moe.
鈥淎ll of us have to continue doing our physical distancing, washing our hands and avoiding large gatherings. And the good news is, we can do all of these things and at the same time continue to go out and support our local businesses,鈥� he added.
Moe said with phase three set for June 8, restaurants and licensed establishments will be able to open at 50 per cent capacity.聽
Additionally, gyms and fitness facilities will also be able to open for business. Childcare facilities and places of worship will also be able to reopen subject to guidelines that are being developed.聽 Personal service businesses that did not open in Phase 2 are also allowed to begin providing services.
Additional changes to phase three include the size of indoor public and private gatherings will increase to 15 people, while the size of outdoor gatherings will increase to 30.
Moe said implementing phase three will include strict guidelines for services like restaurants. Included in these guidelines are no buffets or salad bars, and the closure of recreational areas for the time being which include dance floors, VLTs, pool tables and video games.
Moe said although phase three could be implemented early June , the discussion to reopen the legislature to resume business is a separate discussion that is taking place.
鈥淢y understanding is there is an option that has been provided by the government house leader to the opposition house leader. We hope that we would be able to move forward with the introduction and passage of a budget,鈥� said Moe.
鈥淚 won鈥檛 preclude or put that option into the public realm as I think it is important for the government leaders in their respective caucuses to discuss that,鈥� he added.
